LOVELAND – Larimer County Department of Natural Resources (LCDNR) announces that boat ramps at county reservoirs have begun to open for the season with a slight pause this week due to winter weather.

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So you've thought about going hiking, but boy, it just seems like it's kind of dangerous out there! Not to worry, you're about to have fun while learning how to keep yourself safe while hiking. Join us on a jaunt to Horsetooth Falls where we'll cover the perils and joys of hiking, and the skills and gear you'll need to have a good time while hiking.

So you've thought about going hiking, but boy, it just seems like it's kind of dangerous out there! Not to worry, you're about to have fun while learning how to keep yourself safe while hiking. Join us on a jaunt to Horsetooth Falls where we'll cover the perils and joys of hiking, and the skills and gear you'll need to have a good time while hiking.

Join Larimer County Naturalists for an up-close exploration of the geology of Devil's Backbone Open Space. Learn more about the area's distinct rock formations that formed hundreds of millions of years ago in ancient environments such as salt flats, floodplains, deserts, alkaline lakes, and gravelly rivers—when North America looked vastly different than it does today. As we hike the Morrison Loop, you'll learn the basics of Earth's history through the colorful rock layers, which have been uplifted by geologic forces to create the Backbone's striking landscape.

What's in a name? A whole lot if your name is Horsetooth Mountain, and your profile is part of Fort Collins' City logo. In this 90-minute guided hike, we'll explore the topographic and ecologic features of our area's most iconic natural landmark. The hike courses along the lower part of the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, where you'll learn about the area's unique geology, vegetation, and even its centuries-old creation stories, passed down by our area's first residents.

This program is best for Ages 12 yrs. - adult

Larimer County Department of Natural Resources (LCDNR) has completed its adaptive management plan for Chimney Hollow Open Space (CHOS). This plan will guide how the open space and reservoir are developed in preparation for a public opening in 2027, as well as how the open space will be managed for nature-based access and ecological values into the future.

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New to birding? This is the program for you! We'll walk through how to use binoculars and field guides, learn about bird ID, and discover how birding can contribute to science! Explore the birds of winter at River Bluffs Open Space and learn what they're up to this time of year. Hike 1-ish miles with Larimer County Education and Volunteer Specialist, Ellen Harris, along the Poudre River trail to learn about bird identification, habitat, and more. 

Volunteers will assist in removing trash from the lake and shore. Bring paddlecrafts if you have them.

The LGBTQ+ Summer 2025 activity series is lead in partnership by Natural Areas, Larimer County Natural Resources, and volunteers. These programs are intended to be a safe and welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, allies are welcome. Explore the wonders of nature while connecting with your community.


To register for this program go to: https://engage.fcgov.com/Calendar

The fascinating relationships between pollinators and flowering plants are diverse, intimate and not so different from ourselves. Join Naturalist Anita to discover the intimate relationships pollinators have with native plants in our region. You'll observe how the pollinators, plants, and animals (including ourselves) benefit from this relationship. 

This program is best suited for ages 10 yrs and older.


We'll hike along Horsetooth Falls Trail about 2 miles. This will be a slow paced hike in order to stop and discuss certain plants and pollinators.

Join Larimer County Natural Resources staff and volunteers for an evening of creativity!

The LGBTQ+ Summer 2025 activity series is lead in partnership by Natural Areas, Larimer County Natural Resources, and volunteers. These programs are intended to be a safe and welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, allies are welcome. Explore the wonders of nature while connecting with your community.

Program is free, but registration is required. Carpooling is recommended as parking is limited.